Collar

Dateca. 1770, remade ca. 1800

MediumWhite tabby cotton; cotton and linen sewing and needlework threads

DimensionsCenter back cape depth: 6 3/4"; 17"x17" flat.

Credit LineGift of Kathleen A. Epstein.

Object number1997-15

DescriptionWhite semi-sheer turn-down collar with points and attached rounded cape, both embellished with whitework (chain stitch and buttonhole stitches) with drawn fabric areas. Design consists of scrolling flowers and tri-lobe leaves, with fillings of lacy drawn work. Unlined. Edges hemmed; seams over the shoulders and at center back are stitched with the edges left raw. Appears to have been remade from two earlier sleeve ruffles.Label TextCollar Made from Sleeve Ruffles
Probably England, ca. 1770, remade after 1800
Cotton embroidered with cotton and linen
Gift of Kathleen A. Epstein, 1997-15

Sleeve ruffles cascading from the elbows went out of fashion with the newer neoclassical styles about 1790 to 1800. The innovative woman who owned this pair of sleeve ruffles re-fashioned the beautiful embroidery into a collar to fill in the neckline of a dress.